Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania
name change
my son is 17 years old , has fathers last name, saw father 10 years ago, spoke to father 8 years ago, he was born with my last name, father than came and sighned birth certifacate. my son wants my last name again. longs to graduate from high school in 2010 without fathers name? he wants nothing to do with dad. when can I do this for my son. I know dad WILL NEVER allow this. my son is his only son. he heas 3 other kids all girls. I do not get child support from him. my new husband does everything for my son but I want my son to have my maidian name. what to do
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: name change
You asked about a name change.
Name changes are tremendously easy. Your son can lawfully start using his chosen name immediately. Today, no legal process needed. There are two caveats 1) he cannot do so for legal purposes until the change is authorized by the court (e.g. selective service registration, driver license, bank account), and 2) he cannot use the name for fraudulent purposes. The school should accept the change on request but may require proof of the legal change.
But, to be certain, the change should be made official soon. You can obtain the proper form at your local prothonotary (court clerk). When the document is filed, with the fee, a hearing date will be set. At the hearing the court will ask a few questions and should approve the change. Only the child's legal guardian's consent is necessary.
Congratulations.
Regards,
Roger
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